| List Price: | |
| Price: | $16.50 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details... |
| You Save: | $0.00(0.00%) |
| Binding: | Kindle Edition |
| EAN: | |
| Feature: | |
| Label: | Rodale Books |
| Publisher: | Rodale Books |
| Studio: | Rodale Books |
| Tags: | men health power training build bigger stronger muscles through performance-based conditioning |
Editorial Reviews
One of the nation's elite strength and conditioning coaches presents a unique training program designed to help men achieve functional strength and muscular balance throughout their bodies
For decades, the conventional measure of an individual's strength was the amount of weight he could bench press. Now, that measure is being challenged by expert trainers like Robert dos Remedios who argue that the variety of movement patterns used in functional training is the real key to getting bigger, stronger, and more powerful. In Men's Health Book of Strength, this acclaimed collegiate strength and conditioning coach describes in detail the methods he has used to develop hundreds of Division I scholarship athletes, including several current NFL players.
The key features that make this book a standout in the fitness field include:
• exercises geared toward functional strength that can be utilized in real-world situations, from playing sports to lifting furniture
• training sessions that are short, intense, and highly effective
• compound, multijoint exercises that replace the less-effective isolation exercises found in many fitness books
• no-nonsense dietary information utilizing a new and innovative food pyramid developed by the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition that will optimize strength gains, recovery, and physical progress
For decades, the conventional measure of an individual's strength was the amount of weight he could bench press. Now, that measure is being challenged by expert trainers like Robert dos Remedios who argue that the variety of movement patterns used in functional training is the real key to getting bigger, stronger, and more powerful. In Men's Health Book of Strength, this acclaimed collegiate strength and conditioning coach describes in detail the methods he has used to develop hundreds of Division I scholarship athletes, including several current NFL players.
The key features that make this book a standout in the fitness field include:
• exercises geared toward functional strength that can be utilized in real-world situations, from playing sports to lifting furniture
• training sessions that are short, intense, and highly effective
• compound, multijoint exercises that replace the less-effective isolation exercises found in many fitness books
• no-nonsense dietary information utilizing a new and innovative food pyramid developed by the UCLA Center for Human Nutrition that will optimize strength gains, recovery, and physical progress
Related Reviews
I'm 54 years old and have been lifting since I was 18. I've read countless weightlifting (mainly bodybuilding) books starting with Arnold's stuff in the 70's. I'm a physician. I've been exposed to very little of the material here, but as I understand it, much of it is used currently for athletic training such as football. This thing is packed with great material and I've been working at mastering some of the ideas for several months. The olympic lifts and compound (multiple sets together) exercises are just fantastic. I'm no longer interested in bodybuilding but being strong and healthy and not wasting a lot of time, and this program seems to have it all. Buy this book, I think it will change your life. Be careful with the weight you use, very careful; unless you are well conditioned already you can easily hurt yourself. I've never written one of these reviews before but this time I'm compelled.
Training with a program! Finally
I got this book from the library first but now it's on my Christmas list. This book is well worth the price!
I'm sick of getting workout books that just show you a lot of the same old exercises and don't really give you a program or instruction on how to use the workouts. I believe that is why so many people are gravitating toward workout programs like crossfit, because they actually tell you what to do. I believe the problem with crossfit is that you are constantly working out but there is really no gauge on how much progress you are making or no real goals to accomplish. This book is a very structured book with lots of really creative and difficult exercises, some of which I've never seen before. You may have to work your way up to some of the most difficult exercises.
My first experience going through the full body workout 3 days per week I came closer to puking than I ever had before! It took me about 30mins to calm down after that workout enough to keep my food down. It's a well rounded program that the author has designed so you can tailor it to your own schedule very easily (which is about the only easy thing about this workout).
Another thing I really like about this program is the emphasis on unilateral workouts. I tore my ACL a year ago, and had surgery about 10 months ago, and have had a hard time working out and not favoring my good leg. All the unilateral workouts really keep my body balanced and has really been good for my surgical knee as it recovers.
I can't talk about long term results yet because the book just came out but so far I've been really impressed.
I'm sick of getting workout books that just show you a lot of the same old exercises and don't really give you a program or instruction on how to use the workouts. I believe that is why so many people are gravitating toward workout programs like crossfit, because they actually tell you what to do. I believe the problem with crossfit is that you are constantly working out but there is really no gauge on how much progress you are making or no real goals to accomplish. This book is a very structured book with lots of really creative and difficult exercises, some of which I've never seen before. You may have to work your way up to some of the most difficult exercises.
My first experience going through the full body workout 3 days per week I came closer to puking than I ever had before! It took me about 30mins to calm down after that workout enough to keep my food down. It's a well rounded program that the author has designed so you can tailor it to your own schedule very easily (which is about the only easy thing about this workout).
Another thing I really like about this program is the emphasis on unilateral workouts. I tore my ACL a year ago, and had surgery about 10 months ago, and have had a hard time working out and not favoring my good leg. All the unilateral workouts really keep my body balanced and has really been good for my surgical knee as it recovers.
I can't talk about long term results yet because the book just came out but so far I've been really impressed.
sound practical advice..highly recommended
i really enjoy this book. in particular, the selection and variety of exercises is great. although beginners are encouraged to try, i would say it's best-suited toward people already in above-average shape or people at least 1-2 months into a regular workout program. many of the exercises suggested require a lot of proper technical form, balance, and maximal power, all of which could lead to serious injury without careful supervision or at least a foundational level of fitness. also many of the exercises require comfortable usage of your own body weight. this kind of training requires commitment; done properly, it is not easy.
the philosophy of the author's training is practical & efficient. most books neglect these areas and just offer workout recipes, which to me seems like a by-product of what the author despises: isolation.
my criticisms are small (& not necessarily within the author's control)
- the described total-body, hypertrophy, and strength phases do not seem all that different from each other. (maybe that's just how it is)
- i'd prefer if the more technical exercises were explained & shown in greater detail
- having access to olympic-style lifting equipment can be difficult. it's pretty hard to find gyms that carry the type of barbells & weights you can safely drop on the floor from an elevated height. (you can use regular barbells, just be more careful & quiet)
- i don't really like the nutrition section. it offers basic advice that neither targets losing body fat or adding muscle; just does a little of each. diet & rest are just as important as a workout plan in getting real results. since this is men's health, "the abs diet" is a much better guide to proper eating.
this book is not directed towards losing body fat, though that may happen coincidentally. it's for building practical & balanced strength, muscle, and coordination. ultimately, this kind of training will help keep you safe and functionally strong. i wish there were more books like this and i think it's sad more people don't train like this.
P.S. make sure you use really stable cross-training or tennis shoes with this workout. do not use running shoes.
the philosophy of the author's training is practical & efficient. most books neglect these areas and just offer workout recipes, which to me seems like a by-product of what the author despises: isolation.
my criticisms are small (& not necessarily within the author's control)
- the described total-body, hypertrophy, and strength phases do not seem all that different from each other. (maybe that's just how it is)
- i'd prefer if the more technical exercises were explained & shown in greater detail
- having access to olympic-style lifting equipment can be difficult. it's pretty hard to find gyms that carry the type of barbells & weights you can safely drop on the floor from an elevated height. (you can use regular barbells, just be more careful & quiet)
- i don't really like the nutrition section. it offers basic advice that neither targets losing body fat or adding muscle; just does a little of each. diet & rest are just as important as a workout plan in getting real results. since this is men's health, "the abs diet" is a much better guide to proper eating.
this book is not directed towards losing body fat, though that may happen coincidentally. it's for building practical & balanced strength, muscle, and coordination. ultimately, this kind of training will help keep you safe and functionally strong. i wish there were more books like this and i think it's sad more people don't train like this.
P.S. make sure you use really stable cross-training or tennis shoes with this workout. do not use running shoes.
Here is a book that destroys the illusions surrounding weight lifting and strength training. Many of us sit in the gym wasting massive amounts of time on isolation exercises and judging our strength by bench press alone. This book focuses on total body fitness, compound exercises, balance from front to back, top to bottom. It emphasizes developing a powerful core and pure athleticism. I have placed my faith in this book and followed its prescribed workout since I received the book. The result is that I feel stronger, faster, bigger, and healthier. I feel like an athlete. I have also found that following the book's suggested rest times between sets serves two purposes for these workouts: First, it allows the workout to be completed in far less time than I was previously spending in the gym, yet I am accomplishing twice as much. Second, I have found this mode of fast-paced lifting to be as effective as most cardio sessions. My main goal has been reducing my body fat percentage in a healthy manner. So once I finally adapted to the challenge of the workout's pace, I did as Coach Dos suggested and added 15 minutes of interval cardio to the tail end of as many sessions as possible. This has proved extremely effective in blasting away abdominal fat. Of course a proper diet is necessary to optimize fitness improvements. And although this book contains a chapter on basic nutritional guidelines, which are extremely helpful, I must recommend looking at the Abs Diet books for more detailed nutrition plans. These books are also Men's Health sponsored and very helpful. There are plenty of glowing reviews here that are very helpful for this book, but I truly feel that the importance of the work being done by Coach Dos outlined here in his book is extremely valuable to men AND women everywhere. Here is a plan for life-changing self-improvement, and it will work. Read carefully, work hard, and enjoy.
A book you should not be without!
There are three books in my workout library which I consider indispensable: Beyond Bodybuilding by Pavel Tsatsouline, Ultimate Flexibility by Sang H. Kim, and this book, Men's Health Power Training by Coach Dos. This book is outstanding in every way: explanations of power movements and why you should do them, illustrations, and examples of workouts for Hypertrophy, strength, and general fitness, as well as workouts you can create on your own. I've been using the principals in this book for 4 months now and have seen remarkable gains in strenth, size, and fat loss. I can't recommend this book highly enough!
I am a bodybuilder and a personal trainer. After reading Power Training, I can honestly say I have finally found the bible of physical fitness. There are numerous scientific studies (and not just "bro science") that suggest compound, freeweight / bodyweight exercises are far superior and a heck more beneficial than your typical "beach muscle" isolation routine - i.e. dumbell curls, side laterals, etc... There are lots of evidence that clearly prove squats and deadlifts are "kings" of exercise. Yet, everytime I walk into a gym anywhere in the US, I see nothing but the curl crowd. This culture stems from the fact that juiced-up, roid freaks have dominated (and in many ways controlled) the information highway in the fitness industry. What I mean by this is that every time you read Flex, Muscle and Fitness, Ironman, or Musce Media 2000, you will see two things: A) The favorite routine of today's Mr. Olympia, or some other popular bodybuilding star who's basically a walking pharmacy; and, B) advertisements for supplements. Don't be fooled! Fitness magazines are run by the same supplement companies on the ads. And the routines you read on these rags will only work on roid users.
I have read countless books on the subject, written by popular, well-respected authors such as Rippetoe, Kilgore, Poliquin, Roberts, Starr, etc... I know that squats, deadlifts, and Olympic-style lifts are the most efficient and effective exercises. The problem I've always had, as a trainer, is that because of all the information out there, I always seem to struggle how to put the best routine for myself and for my clients - UNTIL AFTER I'VE READ THIS BOOK!
This book is all you need to reach your goals. This is by far the most comprehensive book on the subject. This book is based on solid science and not some IFBB vodoo crap trying to sell you worthless supplements. My only warning is that if you are a newbie novice lifter, you should consider buying Starting Strength by Rippetoe. It's available in both book and DVD format. The reason I say this is because you want to make sure you master the basic lifts - squats (50 pages long in Starting Strength), deadlifts, presses and power cleans. You could get hurt big time if you lift incorrectly. And if you are an intermediate or advanced lifter, you will benefit alot from Coach Dos' book.
The basic workflow that the book outlines is basically as follows: Explosive, Knee Dominant, Hip Dominant, Vertical Push / Pull, Horizontal Push / Pull, Rotational, and Bridge. The lifter is also advised to follow a bilateral / unilateral pattern. For example, you might do pull ups one day, and then one-arm pull down the next session. Simple, yet EFFECTIVE. The book also show tons of exercises I've never seen before.
Lastly, the nutrition section of the book. It works. Plain and simple. How do I know? Because I was morbidly obese over two years ago at over 33% bodyfat and over 42-inch waistline (I am 10% BF at 185 lbs, 5'8" tall, as of this review). And at 38 years of age, I can squat 275 lbs below parallel and deadlift 275 lbs, both for reps. The "pillars" are the same philosophy that I've been personally following and preaching to my clients with great success. Not gonna go into detail cuz space is limited. Would I recommend this book if you want to lose fat? Absolutely! What if you want to gain muscle? Yes, absolutely. Losing fat or gaining muscle is mostly about caloric intake. In fact, this program is great for fat loss because it will preserve your muscle (read "Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle" by Tom Venuto.)
In conclusion, you can do countless concentration curls, leg extensions, or dumbell flyes. I will guarantee that, using the knowledge I've learned from Coach Dos, my newbie skinny-a$$ (or morbidly obese) clients will surpass you in strength, size and athleticism in no time. It's sad how bodybuilding magazines have really brainwashed the masses. So don't be a stereo-typical meathead and buy this book. You will not be sorry!
THANKS, COACH!
PS. Do you know Coach Dos's designation CSCS? It stands for Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. It is by far the toughest certification a trainer can take. It is the Gold Standard in the sports training industry. Coach Dos really knows his stuff.
I have read countless books on the subject, written by popular, well-respected authors such as Rippetoe, Kilgore, Poliquin, Roberts, Starr, etc... I know that squats, deadlifts, and Olympic-style lifts are the most efficient and effective exercises. The problem I've always had, as a trainer, is that because of all the information out there, I always seem to struggle how to put the best routine for myself and for my clients - UNTIL AFTER I'VE READ THIS BOOK!
This book is all you need to reach your goals. This is by far the most comprehensive book on the subject. This book is based on solid science and not some IFBB vodoo crap trying to sell you worthless supplements. My only warning is that if you are a newbie novice lifter, you should consider buying Starting Strength by Rippetoe. It's available in both book and DVD format. The reason I say this is because you want to make sure you master the basic lifts - squats (50 pages long in Starting Strength), deadlifts, presses and power cleans. You could get hurt big time if you lift incorrectly. And if you are an intermediate or advanced lifter, you will benefit alot from Coach Dos' book.
The basic workflow that the book outlines is basically as follows: Explosive, Knee Dominant, Hip Dominant, Vertical Push / Pull, Horizontal Push / Pull, Rotational, and Bridge. The lifter is also advised to follow a bilateral / unilateral pattern. For example, you might do pull ups one day, and then one-arm pull down the next session. Simple, yet EFFECTIVE. The book also show tons of exercises I've never seen before.
Lastly, the nutrition section of the book. It works. Plain and simple. How do I know? Because I was morbidly obese over two years ago at over 33% bodyfat and over 42-inch waistline (I am 10% BF at 185 lbs, 5'8" tall, as of this review). And at 38 years of age, I can squat 275 lbs below parallel and deadlift 275 lbs, both for reps. The "pillars" are the same philosophy that I've been personally following and preaching to my clients with great success. Not gonna go into detail cuz space is limited. Would I recommend this book if you want to lose fat? Absolutely! What if you want to gain muscle? Yes, absolutely. Losing fat or gaining muscle is mostly about caloric intake. In fact, this program is great for fat loss because it will preserve your muscle (read "Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle" by Tom Venuto.)
In conclusion, you can do countless concentration curls, leg extensions, or dumbell flyes. I will guarantee that, using the knowledge I've learned from Coach Dos, my newbie skinny-a$$ (or morbidly obese) clients will surpass you in strength, size and athleticism in no time. It's sad how bodybuilding magazines have really brainwashed the masses. So don't be a stereo-typical meathead and buy this book. You will not be sorry!
THANKS, COACH!
PS. Do you know Coach Dos's designation CSCS? It stands for Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. It is by far the toughest certification a trainer can take. It is the Gold Standard in the sports training industry. Coach Dos really knows his stuff.
I read a lot of reviews on Amazon and thought I would give this book a try. Let me start my saying that that this program DOES work if you stick to it. Having worked as an Athletic Trainer at Division I college for over 10 years I have seen this type of program implemented to college athletes with great success. The problem I have with this program is a lot of these lifts are VERY COMPLEX!!!! If you have very little lifting experience and you attempt a single-leg good morning or a single-leg romanian deadlift you may very well injure yourself. A lot of these movements are taught to college athletes by a certified strength coach (which dos Remedios is) Athletes are closely supervised by this coach to make sure they are performing the movements correctly (as to avoid injuring themselves). Once these movements have been done correctly by the athlete they are given a little more freedom to exercise on their own. I think this program has great benefits for the experienced lifter who is looking to change his program up. And while Dos Remedios never says its a beginner book he also never states its for the advanced lifter.....which in my opinion it is. If you are a beginner or an overweight person looking to get started I would avoid this book. A couple of suggestions I have to make the book more beginner friendly.
1) Have a video showing proper form for some of the complex exercises
2) Classify exercises in the book as beginner, intermediate, advanced etc....
1) Have a video showing proper form for some of the complex exercises
2) Classify exercises in the book as beginner, intermediate, advanced etc....
Coach Dos has really impressed me.
I have purchased many books relating to strength training, including a few published under the "Men's Health" name, as this one is. This book is easily the finest out of the bunch. Other reviewers have compared it to the "Choose Your Own Adventure" children's book series and, to a certain extent, the basic premise is the same: Coach Dos gives you the tools and then lets you formulate your own workout. While 12 weeks worth of workouts are provided based on three different program designs (Total Fitness, Hypertrophy, and Strength Gain) the primary focus of this book is on allowing you to adapt the workouts to your own tastes and goals. You don't like doing power cleans? No problem - Coach Dos provides you with a dozen alternatives that will hit the same muscles. Bench presses hurt your wrists? Again, no problem - you can choose from several alternatives. Let's say you only have time to hit the weight room twice a week instead of three or four times. This book includes a template for you as well. It also includes extensive sections on High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and less extensive sections on nutrition and the like.
The above alone would only make the book "good" as opposed to "great." I became aware of the final factor roughly a month after I started the plan. Like any book, "Power Training" raises a few questions that are left unanswered. "Men's Health" has set up a subforum devoted to "Power Training" on its online discussion forums. I had a question about rest days that wasn't explained in the book to my satisfaction and asked around on the subforum, hoping another user could point me in the right direction. Within a few hours I had an answer from Coach Dos himself. My follow-up question was answered the following day. I have seen fitness authors answer readers' questions in the past, generally in the form of a general update on Amazon. This is the first time I have actually had an author personally walk me through an answer, in his free time, several months after the book had been published. Most authors could be expected (not unreasonably) to move on relatively soon after publication. Not this one.
If you're looking to shake up your lifting routine or are merely curious about power lifting, this book is worth every penny. Between the solid information included between the covers and the willingness of the author to provide individualized follow-ups, you really can't go wrong with "Power Training."
The above alone would only make the book "good" as opposed to "great." I became aware of the final factor roughly a month after I started the plan. Like any book, "Power Training" raises a few questions that are left unanswered. "Men's Health" has set up a subforum devoted to "Power Training" on its online discussion forums. I had a question about rest days that wasn't explained in the book to my satisfaction and asked around on the subforum, hoping another user could point me in the right direction. Within a few hours I had an answer from Coach Dos himself. My follow-up question was answered the following day. I have seen fitness authors answer readers' questions in the past, generally in the form of a general update on Amazon. This is the first time I have actually had an author personally walk me through an answer, in his free time, several months after the book had been published. Most authors could be expected (not unreasonably) to move on relatively soon after publication. Not this one.
If you're looking to shake up your lifting routine or are merely curious about power lifting, this book is worth every penny. Between the solid information included between the covers and the willingness of the author to provide individualized follow-ups, you really can't go wrong with "Power Training."
I have read all kinds of health and "get strong" books, but this one is by far the best and most practical. This book is not about doing the same old bench press and dumbell curls so you look good at the beach. The workouts in this book are about making you a better athlete on and off the field, while looking good at the beach is just the byproduct. Thanks for writing this book Coach Dos!!
Don't be afraid if you're starting from zero
I have been using this book for a half a year and have seen amazing results. I'm 35, and I started with no experience whatsoever. I could not do a pushup, a pullup, a dip, or anything. I could only bench press 75 pounds. Since then, I can now bench full sets at 145, deadlift 235, do 40 chinups from a full hang to touching my thumbs to my shoulders (good form-- most people do half chinups cause they're easier and they're more interested in the number they do!). The improvements list goes on. My bodyfat's gone from 28% to 14%, I've got lots of muscle to show for it, and the improvements still seem to be accelerating.
This book is excellent for the intermediate and advanced level lifters. But also, I feel that this book can be appropriate for a beginner if he or she follows a few guidelines:
First, be serious and read all the supporting material, twice, before starting. All the admonishments and caveats are there.
Second, Start off with a friend or partner who has also read the book. Help each other with form, and a spot is always nice when the weight starts to get heavy.
Third, do this at a gym with the proper racks, particularly for the leg exercises.
And fourth, when things get a little more balance-intensive, start off with light weights and learn the movements. With proper form, the exercises that require a little more balance will be successful in just a week in every case I've tried.
Buy this book if you intend to make health and fitness your new hobby.
This book is excellent for the intermediate and advanced level lifters. But also, I feel that this book can be appropriate for a beginner if he or she follows a few guidelines:
First, be serious and read all the supporting material, twice, before starting. All the admonishments and caveats are there.
Second, Start off with a friend or partner who has also read the book. Help each other with form, and a spot is always nice when the weight starts to get heavy.
Third, do this at a gym with the proper racks, particularly for the leg exercises.
And fourth, when things get a little more balance-intensive, start off with light weights and learn the movements. With proper form, the exercises that require a little more balance will be successful in just a week in every case I've tried.
Buy this book if you intend to make health and fitness your new hobby.
good book. well written and illustrated. workouts make sense and eliminate a lot of fluff and isolation work. negatives of the book would be lack of talk about going to failure or past, how to handle the fact that many people cannot do multiple sets of a movement without dropping the amount of weight. but these are small complaints. note about the nutrition segment, the author follows a meat free diet, yet the nutrition advice is meat based. a veggie diet would be an interesting comparison.
Excellent - even without a barbell
I work out in a small gym that only has dumbbells, no barbells. Some of the exercises are a little more challenging and awkward to do with dumbbells than with barbells, but you get used to them. Specifically with the olympic-style lifts, you can't keep the weights as close to your body as you can with a bar. It's less awkward (and feels safer) if you keep the dumbbells more to your sides than in front of you, but that changes the feel of the exercises. I mix it up.
The book has so many new exercises (at least new for me), that there's definitely a lengthy learning period -- it took about 6 weeks before I didn't have to bring the book with me every day to the gym.
I time myself between sets and, per the book's advice, I try to keep the rest time around 60-120 seconds, depending on the number of reps. The short rest periods between sets make the whole workout much more challenging and interesting. Still, when I do a push/pull split (that's 4 sets of 6 exercises per day + 3 minute cardio warmup), I'm thrilled to finish everything in under an hour... which is a lot longer than the back cover's claim of 30-45 minutes. Since a lot of the exercises are done separately for right side and left side, the total number of sets will often be a lot more than 24, which I think is why it's hard to finish in 45 minutes. And of course, I do stretch out the rest period here and there -- it's a tough workout!
I especially love the olympic-style lifts, which emphasize explosive power and full-body coordination -- but they're very challenging! It was several weeks before I thought I might possibly be doing them correctly, and a couple months before I really felt safe and comfortable doing them with heavy weight (yes, with dumbbells).
I also really like the exercises that require balance as well as strength, such as the single-leg romanian dead lifts, the pistol squats, the bulgarian split squats, and many of the lunging-type exercises. The balance isn't so challenging that you have to significantly drop the weight, but challenging enough to keep things interesting.
My background: I've been lifting weights off & on for about 20 years. Most of this time I've been doing fairly traditional weight training exercises that you could find in any book from 40-50 years ago. In the last 10 years or so I've been trying to find exercises that are more "whole body", functional, and sports-oriented (i.e. that help your speed, agility, power, balance, etc.) than the body-building types of exercises I'd been doing. I've added in some exercises of this sort over the years, but with this Power Training book, my workout program has been completely overhauled. I feel like all the exercises are doing the right thing.
I very highly recommended this book. However, I will say that the exercises are fairly challenging to do safely and properly. I'd say if you don't have a fair degree of body-sense, either get a trainer, or take it really slowly.
The book has so many new exercises (at least new for me), that there's definitely a lengthy learning period -- it took about 6 weeks before I didn't have to bring the book with me every day to the gym.
I time myself between sets and, per the book's advice, I try to keep the rest time around 60-120 seconds, depending on the number of reps. The short rest periods between sets make the whole workout much more challenging and interesting. Still, when I do a push/pull split (that's 4 sets of 6 exercises per day + 3 minute cardio warmup), I'm thrilled to finish everything in under an hour... which is a lot longer than the back cover's claim of 30-45 minutes. Since a lot of the exercises are done separately for right side and left side, the total number of sets will often be a lot more than 24, which I think is why it's hard to finish in 45 minutes. And of course, I do stretch out the rest period here and there -- it's a tough workout!
I especially love the olympic-style lifts, which emphasize explosive power and full-body coordination -- but they're very challenging! It was several weeks before I thought I might possibly be doing them correctly, and a couple months before I really felt safe and comfortable doing them with heavy weight (yes, with dumbbells).
I also really like the exercises that require balance as well as strength, such as the single-leg romanian dead lifts, the pistol squats, the bulgarian split squats, and many of the lunging-type exercises. The balance isn't so challenging that you have to significantly drop the weight, but challenging enough to keep things interesting.
My background: I've been lifting weights off & on for about 20 years. Most of this time I've been doing fairly traditional weight training exercises that you could find in any book from 40-50 years ago. In the last 10 years or so I've been trying to find exercises that are more "whole body", functional, and sports-oriented (i.e. that help your speed, agility, power, balance, etc.) than the body-building types of exercises I'd been doing. I've added in some exercises of this sort over the years, but with this Power Training book, my workout program has been completely overhauled. I feel like all the exercises are doing the right thing.
I very highly recommended this book. However, I will say that the exercises are fairly challenging to do safely and properly. I'd say if you don't have a fair degree of body-sense, either get a trainer, or take it really slowly.
Great plan as long as you're committed
I'm 31, have 3 kids, full time job, and two dogs. 5'-11" and down to 185 pounds. Just an average Joe that doesn't have a degree in kinesiology (sic), never had a personal trainer, and have no aspirations to be in a weightlifting pageant, but I can tell you, this workout plan is awesome.
If your workout plan follows the typical chest/tri's, back/bi's, shoulders legs philosophy that seems to be the golden standard, you will be pleasantly surprised by this book. You'll spend less time focusing on those ever intense forearm curls and more time gaining true strength. I've completed one of the 12 week programs and am currently in the beginning of a second program and I've cut about close to 10% body fat and lost 2" in my waist. You will be sore, I still feel like it's my first day in the gym sometimes, but you will see results, period.
The cons listed in here are pretty accurate. If you grab this as a beginner, start off slowly and work your way into the program or you'll be too sore to ever want to go to a gym again.
I also do not follow the diet plan too closely. It takes a lot of preparation and you're downing serious calories. I prefer to eat less processed foods and use quality supplements. Just be smart about what you eat.
For the people that complain about the book being hard to drag around the gym, plan your workout before you get in the gym. That's the only way you'll truly be able to track your nominal gains anyway.
If your workout plan follows the typical chest/tri's, back/bi's, shoulders legs philosophy that seems to be the golden standard, you will be pleasantly surprised by this book. You'll spend less time focusing on those ever intense forearm curls and more time gaining true strength. I've completed one of the 12 week programs and am currently in the beginning of a second program and I've cut about close to 10% body fat and lost 2" in my waist. You will be sore, I still feel like it's my first day in the gym sometimes, but you will see results, period.
The cons listed in here are pretty accurate. If you grab this as a beginner, start off slowly and work your way into the program or you'll be too sore to ever want to go to a gym again.
I also do not follow the diet plan too closely. It takes a lot of preparation and you're downing serious calories. I prefer to eat less processed foods and use quality supplements. Just be smart about what you eat.
For the people that complain about the book being hard to drag around the gym, plan your workout before you get in the gym. That's the only way you'll truly be able to track your nominal gains anyway.
Do you consider yourself an advanced weightlifter? Do you actually focus on performing exercises with the proper form rather than with huge amounts of weight? Do you workout muscles that aren't glamorous (i.e. hamstrings). Are you in great shape and wondering what your next step is? If so then this book is for you. These routines will HUMBLE you. I don't care what weight you can put up, these routines will challenge you. You will work muscles you didn't know you had. Most importantly these routines are going to give you the core strength to put up some serious weight. If you have been lifting for a while and have hit a plateau BUY THIS BOOK.
If you have never set foot in a gym this book is not for you (despite its claims that it is). Beginners should check out Men's Health Big Book of Muscle. It has beginner, intermediate, and advanced programs. I've been through all three with excellent results, now its time for me to move on.
If you have never set foot in a gym this book is not for you (despite its claims that it is). Beginners should check out Men's Health Big Book of Muscle. It has beginner, intermediate, and advanced programs. I've been through all three with excellent results, now its time for me to move on.
This is simply a great book. Practical advice and workout plans that aren't cookie-cutter, BB magazine retreads. As has been mentioned by others, "Coach dos" has to practice what he preaches, and what he preaches had better work or he'll be out of a job.
Despite what some people have stated in their reviews, the workouts are highly adaptable to home use as well as gym use. I generally work out at a Gold's Gym nearby, but sometimes just head for the garage when my schedule dictates a shorter run to the gym. Coach dos lays out what you need for home use at the beginning of the book, and in fact if you read through the book you'll soon see how you can adapt specific exercises and workouts to your home gym even if you don't have all of the equipment listed.
I was looking for something different while recovering from knee surgery (had torn cartilage clipped, snipped and stitched). The real world advice, info, and routines in this book got my enthusiasm rolling. Too many people want to be spoon fed everything. The coach's book gives you all need to know about getting stronger, getting bigger - and even faster - and provides enough background and explanation of of the exercises presented to ensure that you are able to create workarounds while recovering or rehabbing from injury. Just fantastic stuff. For instance, the information on slightly altering grips and positions to help those with shoulder trouble is something you don't usually find from other sources.
Using the routines in the book, I was able to get back in shape far faster than I thought I would, after literally 8 months of doing very little exercise due to my problem knee - and a lack of enthusiasm. While paying strict attention to diet to cut bodyfat, I still gained muscle and strength using the hypertrophy and strength routines. I did alter the routines at first, until receiving the go-ahead from my doctor that allowed me to go full tilt with the leg exercises. I went from 6'3", 210 21% bodyfat to 227 at 9% bodyfat, without undue stress over a 6 month period. The best part of the plans are the fact that the coach provides a "menu". He lays down the types of exercises and the order in each program, and you can then pick and choose from the vast array of exercises in the book (the book also provides sample routines with the exercises 'filled in'). Some of the exercises I had never seen before, and some I had completely forgotten about from days in college athletics (track and field). Again, real world advice and info. I won't be surprised if the NFL or some Div I school is eventually able to bribe the coach to leave what looks like a plum, and very fun, position at C of C out here in So Cal.
None of that gain 20 lbs of muscle in a month or get ripped in 10 days bunk here. Just honest, practical instruction. Do the workouts, you'll see what works and doesn't work for you and then you can adjust. I can honestly say I haven't felt this good or this fit since I was competing in college. Thanks Coach dos!
Despite what some people have stated in their reviews, the workouts are highly adaptable to home use as well as gym use. I generally work out at a Gold's Gym nearby, but sometimes just head for the garage when my schedule dictates a shorter run to the gym. Coach dos lays out what you need for home use at the beginning of the book, and in fact if you read through the book you'll soon see how you can adapt specific exercises and workouts to your home gym even if you don't have all of the equipment listed.
I was looking for something different while recovering from knee surgery (had torn cartilage clipped, snipped and stitched). The real world advice, info, and routines in this book got my enthusiasm rolling. Too many people want to be spoon fed everything. The coach's book gives you all need to know about getting stronger, getting bigger - and even faster - and provides enough background and explanation of of the exercises presented to ensure that you are able to create workarounds while recovering or rehabbing from injury. Just fantastic stuff. For instance, the information on slightly altering grips and positions to help those with shoulder trouble is something you don't usually find from other sources.
Using the routines in the book, I was able to get back in shape far faster than I thought I would, after literally 8 months of doing very little exercise due to my problem knee - and a lack of enthusiasm. While paying strict attention to diet to cut bodyfat, I still gained muscle and strength using the hypertrophy and strength routines. I did alter the routines at first, until receiving the go-ahead from my doctor that allowed me to go full tilt with the leg exercises. I went from 6'3", 210 21% bodyfat to 227 at 9% bodyfat, without undue stress over a 6 month period. The best part of the plans are the fact that the coach provides a "menu". He lays down the types of exercises and the order in each program, and you can then pick and choose from the vast array of exercises in the book (the book also provides sample routines with the exercises 'filled in'). Some of the exercises I had never seen before, and some I had completely forgotten about from days in college athletics (track and field). Again, real world advice and info. I won't be surprised if the NFL or some Div I school is eventually able to bribe the coach to leave what looks like a plum, and very fun, position at C of C out here in So Cal.
None of that gain 20 lbs of muscle in a month or get ripped in 10 days bunk here. Just honest, practical instruction. Do the workouts, you'll see what works and doesn't work for you and then you can adjust. I can honestly say I haven't felt this good or this fit since I was competing in college. Thanks Coach dos!
I've been lifting since '96, and working out all my life. I've tried all kinds of programs: bodybuilding, strength training, powerlifting, powerbuilding, olympic lifitng, bodyweight, you name it. I have to stay in shape for work, and also because I love it. This book contains the best program I've ever run. It combines my love for the olympic lifts and variations, core work, rotational work, and unilateral (one limb,ie, lunges, or dumbell work) work. I'm telling you guys, this coach knows his stuff. He took the best parts from the various types of lifting and combined them into his workouts. If you've never worked out much, or have only run a few different programs, you may not see the genius in this system at first glance, but it's there.
I've found a flaws in most other routines I've tried. Some leave out unilateral work, some don't change up exercises, most don't include olympic lifts, some have rigid rep ranges, so on and so on. Coach Dos's book contains no flaws that I can speak of. I do disagree on whether some of the exercises are unilateral or bilateral, but that's a small point of argument.
You can run this workout for an extended time without burning out. The "you choose" exercises and rotating rep ranges ensure this. You can do this workout at home or in a commercial gym. All you need equipment wise, is: a power rack or squat stands, a freeweight barbell set, and dumbells in a wide range of weights (or adjustable), and a adjustable bench. Some things that would come in handy are: a swiss ball, a high-low cable weight setup, and elastic workout bands (like the bodylastics bands).
All in all I have to say that if I were to pick one routine to do for life, this would be it. I don't say this lightly, as I've tried MANY different routines. Try it for yourself!
Oh, and in case you may believe that I'm one of those people who will rave about the latest thing, know that out of all the routines I've done, this is the only one I've left a review for. It's that good.
I've found a flaws in most other routines I've tried. Some leave out unilateral work, some don't change up exercises, most don't include olympic lifts, some have rigid rep ranges, so on and so on. Coach Dos's book contains no flaws that I can speak of. I do disagree on whether some of the exercises are unilateral or bilateral, but that's a small point of argument.
You can run this workout for an extended time without burning out. The "you choose" exercises and rotating rep ranges ensure this. You can do this workout at home or in a commercial gym. All you need equipment wise, is: a power rack or squat stands, a freeweight barbell set, and dumbells in a wide range of weights (or adjustable), and a adjustable bench. Some things that would come in handy are: a swiss ball, a high-low cable weight setup, and elastic workout bands (like the bodylastics bands).
All in all I have to say that if I were to pick one routine to do for life, this would be it. I don't say this lightly, as I've tried MANY different routines. Try it for yourself!
Oh, and in case you may believe that I'm one of those people who will rave about the latest thing, know that out of all the routines I've done, this is the only one I've left a review for. It's that good.
This book lays out a very comprehensive workout program that is well balanced and challenging. The reader learns a lot about strength training, even if he/she already has a lot of knowledge in the area. The pictures and workout descriptions are very helpful to master the many exercises. The author lays out exercises in a begining to advanced fashion for each type of lift, this allows this book to be a good reference for the begining or advanced lifter. I'd recommend this book over any other strength training books I've read.
Men's Health Power Training... my new training bible
I bought this book after reading an article about coach Dos in the mens health magazine and then read the reviews, kinda backwards, but I feel compelled to write a review. I'm 21 years old and I've played a lot of competitive football, I honestly wish that this book was in my hands when I was back in High School like somewhere in gr. 9 or 10. I'm probably in the best shape of my life right now and I see it easily getting better.
In my mind there are three types of people that you see in gyms: the body-builder, the athlete, and the every day person wishing to get in shape. What this book puts forth is the idea that the results you get from athletic conditioning are two-fold: you get the amazing functional strength and coordination, and the 'side-effect' a great athletic physique (picture Terrell Owen's to get the idea). Body-builders are "isolationists" (no offense) they train specific muscle groups by targeting and isolating them in movements in hopes to get that Arnold look. In reality though training like Arnold just makes you look jacked and thats about it, you can't use that size in sports or in everyday life, there is no functional strength or coordination (try to picture Arnold skating, or trying to guard a point guard, or cover a receiver). This book talks about why it is more beneficial training like an athlete over a body-builder and outside of those handful of people that want to be body-builders this books training methodolgies will make perfect sense. The least you must do is read this book from cover-to-cover if your a serious athlete or health buff, and take away from it what you want.
I went through the first 12-weeks of the total-body routine (theres 3, total-body, hypertrophy and strength), and I can tell you first-hand that I've never felt like this before. I feel more power through my legs, hips and upper body, my coordination went to a different level and I feel like I got a secret weapon now which is the knowledge I got from this book. I'm not a big measurement guy so I don't got any for you guys, but I use to play the nose-tackle position and right now I feel like I can make the move to defensive end or linebacker if that helps.
In my mind there are three types of people that you see in gyms: the body-builder, the athlete, and the every day person wishing to get in shape. What this book puts forth is the idea that the results you get from athletic conditioning are two-fold: you get the amazing functional strength and coordination, and the 'side-effect' a great athletic physique (picture Terrell Owen's to get the idea). Body-builders are "isolationists" (no offense) they train specific muscle groups by targeting and isolating them in movements in hopes to get that Arnold look. In reality though training like Arnold just makes you look jacked and thats about it, you can't use that size in sports or in everyday life, there is no functional strength or coordination (try to picture Arnold skating, or trying to guard a point guard, or cover a receiver). This book talks about why it is more beneficial training like an athlete over a body-builder and outside of those handful of people that want to be body-builders this books training methodolgies will make perfect sense. The least you must do is read this book from cover-to-cover if your a serious athlete or health buff, and take away from it what you want.
I went through the first 12-weeks of the total-body routine (theres 3, total-body, hypertrophy and strength), and I can tell you first-hand that I've never felt like this before. I feel more power through my legs, hips and upper body, my coordination went to a different level and I feel like I got a secret weapon now which is the knowledge I got from this book. I'm not a big measurement guy so I don't got any for you guys, but I use to play the nose-tackle position and right now I feel like I can make the move to defensive end or linebacker if that helps.
I attended College of the Canyons in 2002 and 2003 and had the great pleasure of woring with Coach Dos. This man is the most intense and knowledgeable strength coach that I have ever worked with. You would do yourself well to buy his book and listen to what he has to say.
As a mother of three and over 40, I found just what I was looking for in a weight training book. I have done kettlebells and free weights for several years but do not consider myself "advanced" and this book was very user friendly. The author does suggest one get some instruction for the more difficult lifts....but I don't see where one would need to be "advanced" to benefit from this book. It is a 'no fluff' book on some great weight training methods. I have looked at several books and feel this comes closest to what I was looking to find. Being a kettlebell enthusiast, I totally agree with the lifting complexes for strength--not isolation for "mirror muscles":-)
Perfect Advice, but the delivery is questionable
First of all let me say that I have been following this book for six weeks. I love it. Great exercises, easy-to-follow pictures, and totally worth the buy if you have been training for a while.
Again, before I get into the negatives, I'll say that you should get this book if you are serious about lifting/training/looking better. You will see amazing results if you follow this plan.
Cons:
- Book is huge. This is no paperback. It is a monster book that will not fit into your gym bag. So if you have questions about a certain complex lift. Too bad, should have studied at home.
- Poor organization. Topics are of all over the place. When planning your workouts you have to constantly flip through the book to look for the 'Bilateral Knee Dominate Exercises' or whatever you need for a certain 'menu item'. This could have easily been solved with page numbers after the workouts in the second chapter.
- Lack of warning. If you are a beginner DO NOT get this book. It is not written for beginners. You will hurt yourself. Any lift that requires a barbell can easily hurt you unless you have proper coaching. To be fair Doc does say this, but it is in the last sentence of a chapter. It took me three reads (ok...skims) to catch that.
- Lack of Warning 2. If you are an armature (like me) who has been lifting for a year or so, keep in mind that it is easy to hurt yourself. These workouts are intense (which is a very good thing) but you need to be able to listen to your body and stop when you get a bad feeling or something starts to hurt.
I want to state again that I love this book. You are buying a great way to build workouts. And all of these problems are minor since this book delivers what it claims. You will see results! Good luck!
Again, before I get into the negatives, I'll say that you should get this book if you are serious about lifting/training/looking better. You will see amazing results if you follow this plan.
Cons:
- Book is huge. This is no paperback. It is a monster book that will not fit into your gym bag. So if you have questions about a certain complex lift. Too bad, should have studied at home.
- Poor organization. Topics are of all over the place. When planning your workouts you have to constantly flip through the book to look for the 'Bilateral Knee Dominate Exercises' or whatever you need for a certain 'menu item'. This could have easily been solved with page numbers after the workouts in the second chapter.
- Lack of warning. If you are a beginner DO NOT get this book. It is not written for beginners. You will hurt yourself. Any lift that requires a barbell can easily hurt you unless you have proper coaching. To be fair Doc does say this, but it is in the last sentence of a chapter. It took me three reads (ok...skims) to catch that.
- Lack of Warning 2. If you are an armature (like me) who has been lifting for a year or so, keep in mind that it is easy to hurt yourself. These workouts are intense (which is a very good thing) but you need to be able to listen to your body and stop when you get a bad feeling or something starts to hurt.
I want to state again that I love this book. You are buying a great way to build workouts. And all of these problems are minor since this book delivers what it claims. You will see results! Good luck!
All the Adonis, Half the Time.
I would advise anyone looking to sculpt their body for useful purposes to not only buy this book, but live by it. Mr. dos Remedios has found a way to build any body into a lean mean performance machine. If you want to train to help your golf game, this is the book. If you need a little more power in your forehand, live this book. If you get pushed around in the paint, read this book. If you want to run faster, jump farther, hit the long ball, blow by your defender, this book needs to be read immediately. If you're just looking to loose the spare tire or just get into a shape other than round, this book will help.
This book is designed to help you build a better and stronger body. It will show you the right way to work your body in order to get the most out of it.
Live this book and reap the benefits!
This book is designed to help you build a better and stronger body. It will show you the right way to work your body in order to get the most out of it.
Live this book and reap the benefits!
Coach Dos' book Power Training is a phenomenal book. It has totally revolutionized my training. After 10 yrs of doing traditional bodybuilding routines, i.e. Chest on Monday, Back on Tues, Legs on Wed, etc etc. I read his book and finally got on board with the concept of total body conditioning and push-pull routines. I feel stronger, more athletic and more coordinated than ever. I feel like I'm in the best shape of my life. I'm not quite as "big" as I was when I was doing traditional bodybuilding-style routines, however, I feel much more athletic and coordinated. I am about 6 lbs lighter and my BF % has went down. The push-pull routines are awesome. I change my routine every 3 wks and pick new exercises from the book. And single-joint exercises are a thing of the past in my routines. Now I laugh when I see the guys at the gym doing concentration curls and leg extensions.
A must-read for sure.
A must-read for sure.
Like many others here I have several training books and resources but Power Training is easily the most comprehensive and best designed program I've seen. It takes all the guesswork out of designing a proper routine and given the variety and goal-based approach you could easily use this program for years. In six week I've made gains that I haven't seen before at this pace and I've still got another six weeks before I even complete the first phase.
Make no mistake though, the programs in Power Training are not for the lazy or half-arse attempts at getting in shape. You leave nothing on the table when you finish a workout and crawl out of the gym.
Make no mistake though, the programs in Power Training are not for the lazy or half-arse attempts at getting in shape. You leave nothing on the table when you finish a workout and crawl out of the gym.
The Beginning of an Educational Journey
Before this book, I should not have been allowed to bear the title of Certified Personal Trainer. This book, though I read it years ago, opened my eyes to what training should be. It's applicability to both athletes and the general population is significantly high and it truly provides a foundation needed to build an education on. It's too bad that I did not have this book during my playing career, or maybe I would still be playing the sport I love to this today. Every trainer should be required to read and apply the principles taught in this book... their clients will thank them.
Men's Health Power Training presents all the information you need to create a great training program whatever your goals may be. Whether you are training for a marathon or a bodybuilder's contest, the various training methodologies are thoroughly discussed in a casual but straight-forward conversation with the author, Robert dos Remedios.
This book is full descriptions and pictures that allow for easy understanding of how each exercise is to be performed. The grouping of exercises by function and the workout card system make creating personal and varied training programs a simple task. The nutrition chapter is brief and to the point with no-nonsense information and meal plan. No recipes here.
Impressive enough to keep a copy myself and forward copies to my sons.
This book is full descriptions and pictures that allow for easy understanding of how each exercise is to be performed. The grouping of exercises by function and the workout card system make creating personal and varied training programs a simple task. The nutrition chapter is brief and to the point with no-nonsense information and meal plan. No recipes here.
Impressive enough to keep a copy myself and forward copies to my sons.
One of the finest, well written resources I have seen in 15 years
I'm extremely cynical and hyper critical when it comes to text books, having had to design collegiate internship programs as the MA State director for the NSCA 04'-07' and I can honestly say this ranks as the top resource I recommend to trainers, yes.. trainers. Obviously consumers will benefit from this book, but it is a must read for any current professionals who want their clients to acheive real, usable results.
No proof in the pudding yet... but it all sounds great and personal trainer of my close acquaintance endorses the principles. Two years of workouts with personal trainer have proven to me that focused exercise misses out ancillary muscles & tendons... the idea that complex exercises get all the muscles and all the tendons simply makes sense to me. The push-pull and the variation of exercise are well-known. Putting it all together into his plan sounds right. But I'll have to let you know later how it actually works - providing I take the time and make the effort to prove it all for myself.
what a killer! I have been doing the full body work out2-3 times a week, often feel like crawling out of the gym! I kind of miss how much bigger my arms used to get on a regular regimen but otherwise my overall strength is much better, enjoying tossing my kids around a lot more easily than before!
I'm a 23 y/o who's been involved with sports since I was 5 y/o and have been lifting for sports since I entered high school. After graduation I became very involved in the bodybuilding aspect of lifting but ended up with several lifting related injuries. I turned from the bodybuilding magazines and the programs they offered to a more "real world" view of things with Men's Health Magazine.
One day while reading the articles in Men's Health I came across one written by dos Remedios, to but it bluntly, I LOVED IT. I saw the mention of this book in there and instantly new I had to have it.
I purchased the book and have begun lifting with the program. What I like most about it is its practicality and no-nonsense approach. As I'd said I've done the bodybuilding routines and only ended up with injuries. This book with make you a strong person for the real world with clearly explained, highly effective compound exercises, and precisely designed routines.
Get this book! You'll be thanking yourself in twelve short weeks!
One day while reading the articles in Men's Health I came across one written by dos Remedios, to but it bluntly, I LOVED IT. I saw the mention of this book in there and instantly new I had to have it.
I purchased the book and have begun lifting with the program. What I like most about it is its practicality and no-nonsense approach. As I'd said I've done the bodybuilding routines and only ended up with injuries. This book with make you a strong person for the real world with clearly explained, highly effective compound exercises, and precisely designed routines.
Get this book! You'll be thanking yourself in twelve short weeks!
Best of Breed in Fitness and Weight Training... listen to Coach Dos!!!
Obviously Men's Health is an important magazine to keep in rotation for any guy concerned about fitness. The problem with the magazine is that because it must constantly produce new articles, the information (as any long-time reader may notice) can sometimes be contradictory.
Coach Dos' book has no problems when it comes to contradiction. He lays it out, in plain English with excellent photo examples, the exercises and routines that he has taught to his students over the course of time. He knows what works to transform the body, to strengthen and grow, to slim down and make lean, and all those other goals that most guys have.
I've given this book about 10 weeks and, no joke, at 28 I feel like I'm in the best shape I've ever been. I've certainly weighed more and looked "bigger" but now I feel leaner, more balanced, quicker, and stronger than before. I'm by no means a bodybuilder and looking like one is not my goal. I want to be lean and strong and this book is truly helping me realize those goals.
Coach Dos preaches explosive movements that require core strength, unilateral movements that demand balance, and he shies away from asking questions like "What do you bench?" in favor of "How many single-leg pistol squats can you bang out?" The routines are demanding, especially finishing them in the recommended time, but I've seen a bigger change in the past couple of months than I've seen in the past couple years of gym-going previously.
I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who can look through it and who honestly feels that they can stick to the routines. They will challenge you in ways you're not used to and you'll be thanking Coach Dos for it.
Coach Dos' book has no problems when it comes to contradiction. He lays it out, in plain English with excellent photo examples, the exercises and routines that he has taught to his students over the course of time. He knows what works to transform the body, to strengthen and grow, to slim down and make lean, and all those other goals that most guys have.
I've given this book about 10 weeks and, no joke, at 28 I feel like I'm in the best shape I've ever been. I've certainly weighed more and looked "bigger" but now I feel leaner, more balanced, quicker, and stronger than before. I'm by no means a bodybuilder and looking like one is not my goal. I want to be lean and strong and this book is truly helping me realize those goals.
Coach Dos preaches explosive movements that require core strength, unilateral movements that demand balance, and he shies away from asking questions like "What do you bench?" in favor of "How many single-leg pistol squats can you bang out?" The routines are demanding, especially finishing them in the recommended time, but I've seen a bigger change in the past couple of months than I've seen in the past couple years of gym-going previously.
I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who can look through it and who honestly feels that they can stick to the routines. They will challenge you in ways you're not used to and you'll be thanking Coach Dos for it.
I bought this book after reading an article in Men's Health by its author Robert dos Remedios. I am very impressed with the depth and format of this book. The author provided tons of useful information that I believe will allow me to take my training to a new level. The science of exercise has changed considerably over the years, and this book will bring you up to date with modern lifting techniques and strategies.
the book is very nice and it show and explians all exercises derscribed and recomended in this book.ive been enjoying it and give it an A.the book is a bit larger than i anticipated though,its as big as a school text book.
Best training program I've come across.
For three years I've been looking for just the right book to fit my needs for fitness and for the martial arts. As I studied Kung Fu, I knew I needed to improve my total fitness AND my performance. I started with many of the traditional exercises workout plans (centered around squats, deadlifts, and bench presses), but I knew I needed something different; I just didn't know what. I heard about coach Dos through my soccer playing friends who had him as a strength coach. "He's the head coach, and man does he work you out!" When I happened upon his book, I decided to give it a try. Not only did I gain muscle size and strength at a speed I didn't even think was possible, I busted plateaus I had been in for months! If you're an athlete, or just looking for a fitness plan that'll give you more bang for your buck, This is the book for you! I recommend it not only as a personal trainer, but also as a martial artist who's gotten fantastic restults with it.
Excellent book!
I have lifted on and off for over 30 years, and this book provides great exercises that are efficient in terms of time for the overall impact. Core exercises are central to this book and after a few times really make you feel good when you do them.
Even my wife became an advocate and is improving the strength of her back, which has given her problems.
Only critique is the book could provide some more details on the exercises and some more pictures. A DVD would be a great addition. Also, I think there is not enough emphasis on cardio.
You need to invest some time to understand the exercises and get your routine down; after a few weeks, it becomes faster and easier and worth the time investment.
I have lifted on and off for over 30 years, and this book provides great exercises that are efficient in terms of time for the overall impact. Core exercises are central to this book and after a few times really make you feel good when you do them.
Even my wife became an advocate and is improving the strength of her back, which has given her problems.
Only critique is the book could provide some more details on the exercises and some more pictures. A DVD would be a great addition. Also, I think there is not enough emphasis on cardio.
You need to invest some time to understand the exercises and get your routine down; after a few weeks, it becomes faster and easier and worth the time investment.
Great, well-thought out approach to gaining strength
I have always been in good shape. I've achieved this by keeping generally active with sports, yoga, a little bit of lifting, running, etc. I have never used a "program" for fitness and have never bought a book like this one. I had leafed through it at bookstores and found it interesting. Finally I bought it through Amazon. I couldn't be more pleased with "Power Training".
I use the workouts when I go to my YMCA and have gotten great results. Prior to reading the book, I usually went around the weight room and used some machines, did some bench presses with free weights and tried to do a squat or two. Now I have a great guide for using the facilities in an extremely productive way. By using the workout cards in the appendix you just go through the menu of exercises described throughout the book and build a total body workout session by session. The exercises are explained well and varied enough to keep the workouts interesting. Best of all, the exercises all enhance *functional* strength. It is not a body-sculpting program although the visual results are apparent. Rather this program has helped me feel stronger when I lift my kids up (or wrestle with them.) It has translated into performing better on the tennis and basketball courts as well. As a 43 year-old man I highly recommend "Power Training" for anyone who wants to increase their total body strength.
I use the workouts when I go to my YMCA and have gotten great results. Prior to reading the book, I usually went around the weight room and used some machines, did some bench presses with free weights and tried to do a squat or two. Now I have a great guide for using the facilities in an extremely productive way. By using the workout cards in the appendix you just go through the menu of exercises described throughout the book and build a total body workout session by session. The exercises are explained well and varied enough to keep the workouts interesting. Best of all, the exercises all enhance *functional* strength. It is not a body-sculpting program although the visual results are apparent. Rather this program has helped me feel stronger when I lift my kids up (or wrestle with them.) It has translated into performing better on the tennis and basketball courts as well. As a 43 year-old man I highly recommend "Power Training" for anyone who wants to increase their total body strength.
Out with the old, in with what works! Coach Dos is the man. I wish I would have had this information back in the day when I was young enough to make a difference playing sports. Instead of trying to balloon up and look like a meathead, we could have actually made muscle and power where it counted. My definition of who looks tough and who is tough has changed dramatically. This won't give you fake pumped up type muscles, it will give you real powerful muscles! Anyway, I have been doing this exact program for 3 weeks and I can already tell a world of difference in my life and recreational sports performance. This program is unbelievable. It's hard work and not for the faint of heart, but if you commit, it will change your life. Very highly recommended. Way to go Coach!
Got this book because I was looking for a workout structure that is geared more towards functionality outside of the gym. It hasn't disappointed at all as it provides a different, and in my opinion better, approach to weight-lifting. It has an excellent selection of exercises to choose from which keep your workouts fresh AND challenging as well as workout routines that can go from 2,3, or 4 days a week depending on the time that you have available to you. One thing that you should take care to do is get your form right for the explosive exercises in the book as they are pretty complex, so take your time and get it right. I'd recommend this book to anyone who is looking for an exercise book geared towards athletic performance vice isolated weight-lifting exercises for the sake of appearance.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Great Book (Adds Explosive Exercies which add Risk for some)
I really did enjoy this book. I think functional training is, first and foremost, the smartest way to train for the average individual. It correlates to strengthening you in real-life situations! I enjoyed the book and found it well written, and easy to understand. The workouts are arranged in a smart and logically manner. And the authors explain why they make each adjustment. That means you don't just follow a plan, but you learn how to make your own.
The emphasis isn't on muscle strength or hypertrophy, but more on looking better and being more healthy.
Though they do describe how you can edit things to incorporate more strength or size training.
I'm an NSCA Certified Personal Trainer and have a B.S. in Exercise Science, and even I learned a few things. I think the biggest tool for anybody, is too not follow things to the "T", but adapt things to fit you. I think the books gives room for this, though it's not stressed.
The only issues some may find is this book shows many exercises for people who aren't at risk for many injuries, like the power clean, power snatch, jump squat, etc. These moves can't easily be performed by beginners and can put some people at extreme risks.
If you are knowledgeable and willing to make changes for your safety, then I think almost anyone could still benefit from this book.
Offers advice for people willing to do anywhere from workout 1x through 4x a week. And, again, you can edit things a bit, which I have done.
Some sample meal plans and nutrition advice is given as well.
The emphasis isn't on muscle strength or hypertrophy, but more on looking better and being more healthy.
Though they do describe how you can edit things to incorporate more strength or size training.
I'm an NSCA Certified Personal Trainer and have a B.S. in Exercise Science, and even I learned a few things. I think the biggest tool for anybody, is too not follow things to the "T", but adapt things to fit you. I think the books gives room for this, though it's not stressed.
The only issues some may find is this book shows many exercises for people who aren't at risk for many injuries, like the power clean, power snatch, jump squat, etc. These moves can't easily be performed by beginners and can put some people at extreme risks.
If you are knowledgeable and willing to make changes for your safety, then I think almost anyone could still benefit from this book.
Offers advice for people willing to do anywhere from workout 1x through 4x a week. And, again, you can edit things a bit, which I have done.
Some sample meal plans and nutrition advice is given as well.
Overall, a great book for begginers and those who are more advanced
Great book over all. It breaks down the exercises in a balanced manner and has a nice, brief, section on nutrition. It stays on my shelf for reference.
Great book to get build size and strength
I was a little hesitant to buy a Men's Health book after bad experiences in the past; but, this book is a great source. Dos Remedios (the author) gives you all you need to build strength and size. I was on the fence between this book or Eric Cressey's Maximum Strength, but this book won me over because you have the ability to choose your exercise from different category. It couldn't be any easier to do. I am on week 7 (out of 12), and I am still pumped each time I go to the gym because I am trying different exercises and knowing that it is working.
I originally got this for a fitness class I was taking 2 years ago and use it everyday to train not only myself, but also my clients. There are so many great lifts and unlimited workouts that can be designed from it. I also recommend Coach Dos's follow up book "Cardio Strength Training".
Great workouts! I personally prefer when a workout plan is spelled out for me; this book delivers.
I have gotten stronger, faster, and ripped on this system while maintaining a good clean nutrition program.
Very informative, there is a lot of information so take the time to break it all down and don't get discouraged this book has all the answers if you are patient.
Completely altered my approach and my body
This book by and far altered the way I approached my exercise routine. My stamina, overall power, and athleticism has greatly increased due simply to the changes I made by reading this book. I have read countless articles and had two different public gym trainers, but none have come close to doing my body the justice this book has. My words can't overstate this book, but I suggest you go to the local bookstore and skim through it. You will see just how different it is.
Great book for anyone interrested in training
I really enjoy this book. Even though my knowledgebase is big, I really enjoy the ideas and the exercises in this great book. Love it!
revolutionary workout philosophy
i have never written a review but feel compelled to for power training
this book logically convinces you to ditch your old "bodybuilding" habits for aesthetic goals to instead focus on the natural motions of the human body and increase strength in such a way that is FUNCTIONAL.
though i do not recommend people who do not frequent the gym regularly to jump in head first. take it slowly and as your body is more receptive to the movements then move on to the more complex exercises.
my entire approach to the gym has changed and believe that if can perform like an athlete i will have the body of an athlete
this book logically convinces you to ditch your old "bodybuilding" habits for aesthetic goals to instead focus on the natural motions of the human body and increase strength in such a way that is FUNCTIONAL.
though i do not recommend people who do not frequent the gym regularly to jump in head first. take it slowly and as your body is more receptive to the movements then move on to the more complex exercises.
my entire approach to the gym has changed and believe that if can perform like an athlete i will have the body of an athlete
Great book if you are looking for a training method that actually works. Like anything else, you need to stick to the plan for the best results.
They provide many exercises and explanations of how they benefit you . There is also a sample meal plan and many tips and suggestions to maximize your knowledge of healthy weight training. I noticed increased strenghth within a relatively short period of time. The workouts have affected muscles I didn't know I had. I highly recommend this book.
They provide many exercises and explanations of how they benefit you . There is also a sample meal plan and many tips and suggestions to maximize your knowledge of healthy weight training. I noticed increased strenghth within a relatively short period of time. The workouts have affected muscles I didn't know I had. I highly recommend this book.
I enjoyed this book. I was not a big fan of going to the gym because I really didn't know what to do. I would listen to my buddies and copied what they did. However, I didn't have a plan or clue.
Power Training was easy to read and provided multiple game plans for me to pursue. I have completed one 12-week cycle and after two weeks rest, recently started another 12-week cycle.
I may not be doing what a lot of the other gym rats are doing, but I feel confident in what my goals are and have a plan to achieve what I want to.
Power Training was easy to read and provided multiple game plans for me to pursue. I have completed one 12-week cycle and after two weeks rest, recently started another 12-week cycle.
I may not be doing what a lot of the other gym rats are doing, but I feel confident in what my goals are and have a plan to achieve what I want to.
Share your thoughts with other customers
Create your own review
Create your own review